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Summer is the perfect time to show off your nails. This season is all about carefree and fun. But who has time to worry about chipped nails? So before the holidays is the perfect time to head to the nail salon and let your nail technician know what design you’d like.
If you’re not sure where to start, consider this ombré-inspired trend from Aura Nails, as nail experts Aaliyah Smith, Bettina Goldstein, and Rene Oker Mesa explain the style below.
What is Aura Nail?
“The aura nail trend takes nail color to the next level with a modern twist on the ombré effect,” Mesa tells Essence. “Aura nail art is a great and fun way to play with color and contrast by creating a gradient effect from the center of the nail and a softer, blurry effect moving outwards. It’s inspired by color photography, using color expression to reflect a person’s aura and energy.” According to Smith, the on-trend nail design is “freehand ’90s nails” with “lots of lines and dots.”
What colour should I choose for my Aura Nails?
It all depends on your personal “aura” and preferences. Smith and Mesa recommend picking any color to achieve your aura nails. “The contrast can range from subtle to bold, and the color options are truly endless,” says Mesa. “The key is to play with colors that complement each other and understand which colors can be mixed together to create additional shades.” This style is all about reflecting your own energy and personality. So, have fun!
How to DIY Aura Nails at Home
With the right tools, you can turn your home into a nail salon. No gel nails or professional airbrush system required. After prepping and drying your nails, Mesa recommends applying a base coat. Once dry, apply two coats of lacquer nail polish to set the base color. “Let the lacquer dry and then, using a sponge tool or makeup sponge, apply the lacquer directly onto the sponge, layering one color in the center and another color on the outside of the center,” says Mesa. “Press the sponge against your nail to mix the colors together, creating a smooth, gradient effect.”
